Bluetooth technology has revolutionized the hearing aid industry by providing seamless connectivity and advanced features that enhance the user’s auditory experience. It offers numerous benefits, such as streaming audio directly from smartphones, televisions, and other devices. It also connects your devices to a mobile companion app, allowing for remote adjustments, and some even support hands-free phone calls. Studies have shown that users of Bluetooth hearing aids experience improved speech recognition and overall auditory satisfaction compared with users of non-Bluetooth models. (1)(2)
Our team at Fortune RecommendsTM has meticulously evaluated the best hearing aids to bring you the top four Bluetooth options available today. We analyzed and tested these devices based on performance, features, value, and customer experience to ensure our readers can make informed purchasing decisions. We tested a total of 20 products, narrowing down the list to the best four by considering sound quality, noise reduction, feedback control, programmability, and connectivity.
Best Bluetooth hearing aids overall
The Jabra Select 500 is our pick for best overall Bluetooth hearing aid due to its exceptional sound quality, advanced noise reduction, and seamless connectivity. This model stands out with its innovative features like Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast™, and hands-free calling. Read on for full details on why the Jabra Select 500 leads the pack in the latest Bluetooth hearing aid technology.
Our picks for the best Bluetooth hearing aids
- Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 500
- Best for severe hearing loss: Phonak Audéo Lumity
- Most user-friendly: Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose
- Best lifestyle: Starkey Genesis AI
How we test hearing aids
Hearing aids are an essential tool for understanding and interacting with the world. We aim to help readers make the best hearing aid purchase for their needs, so we rigorously test and evaluate hearing aids before recommending them. Read our full hearing aid testing methodology for more information on our testing process.
Testing criteria
Performance (auditory effectiveness)—40%
A hearing aid is only as good as the sound amplification it delivers. We test for the following factors as part of our evaluation process.
- Sound quality
- Noise reduction
- Feedback control
- Programmability and connectivity
Features—30%
Additional factors like battery life and water resistance are important for the hearing aid’s day-to-day usefulness.
- Durability
- Battery options
- Hearing loss range
- Wireless connectivity
- Water resistance
- Safety features
Value—20%
Value isn’t just the sticker price, but includes factors like financing, maintenance costs, and insurance acceptance.
- Insurance coverage
- Financing options
Customer experience—10%
We evaluate secondary customer experiences, like shipping options and the ease of purchase, so consumers don’t have to.
- Shipping
- Warranty
- Customer support
What to look for in a Bluetooth hearing aid
When searching for a Bluetooth hearing aid, you’ll want to consider these key features to ensure optimal performance and user satisfaction:
- Sound quality: Look for devices with clear, natural audio and effective noise reduction to enhance speech understanding.
- Connectivity: Ensure seamless Bluetooth pairing with smartphones, TVs, and other devices for effortless streaming. Make sure they are compatible with the devices you own.
- Comfort: Choose a lightweight, well-fitting design for all-day wear without discomfort.
- Battery life: Opt for models with long battery life to avoid frequent recharging.
- Ease of use: Consider user-friendly interfaces and controls, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.
- Durability: Select a hearing aid that’s built to withstand daily wear and tear, including water resistance if needed.
- Customer support: Check for reliable customer service and comprehensive warranties. Decide if you prefer ongoing professional assistance or to manage them yourself.
Compare Bluetooth hearing aids
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| Jabra Enhance Select 500 | Phonak Audéo Lumity | Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose | Starkey Genesis AI | |
| Rating | ||||
| Price | $1,795 or $1,995, depending on package | Around $5,445 | $999 | Starting at around $2,950 |
| Type | OTC | Prescription | OTC | Prescription |
| Style | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to moderate | Mild to profound | Mild to moderate | Mild to profound |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Disposable or rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
Best overall Bluetooth hearing aids: Jabra Enhance Select 500
Key product features
What you should know
The Jabra Enhance Select 500 stands out for its exceptional sound quality and advanced features. Here are the key takeaways:
- The Jabra Enhance Select 500 offers advanced acoustics and noise cancellation, making it a standout choice in the Bluetooth hearing aid market.
- It’s priced higher for OTC devices at $1,795 or $1,995, depending on the package selected.
- This hearing aid is ideal for active individuals who need reliable connectivity and clear sound in various environments, especially noisy ones.
- This is the smallest and lightest model made by Jabra Enhance, ensuring comfort and a discreet, secure fit.
- It features advanced, future-proof Bluetooth technology with LE Audéo and Auracast™.
Why we like Jabra Enhance Select 500 as the best overall
Jabra Enhance released its latest flagship OTC model, the Select 500, on May 14, 2024. (3) This device combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design, making it our top pick for the best overall Bluetooth hearing aid. It boasts exceptional sound quality, noise reduction capabilities, and seamless connectivity, providing a superior auditory experience.
Performance and sound quality
One of the standout features of the Jabra Enhance Select 500 is its impressive sound quality. This hearing aid utilizes advanced algorithms to deliver clear, natural acoustics with advanced background noise cancellation. This particularly benefits those frequently in bustling settings like restaurants or social gatherings.
Bluetooth connectivity and features
With Bluetooth connectivity, users can stream audio directly from their smartphones, TVs, and other devices, so it’s easier to enjoy music, podcasts, and phone calls without the need for additional accessories. The Jabra Enhance also supports hands-free calling for both iOS and Android phones, a rarity in currently available healing aids, which usually only offer this feature in iOS devices, if at all. It also employs TapControl, which allows you to simply double-tap your ear or hearing aid to activate the hands-free calling feature.
Bluetooth also connects to the Jabra Enhance app for remote adjustments to volume, listening programs, and noise reduction. Jabra Enhance hearing professionals can also make technical adjustments remotely through the app.
The Select 500 is the only OTC Jabra Enhance model to offer cutting-edge Low Energy (LE) Audio, which is the new standard in connectivity that improves audio quality, battery life, and enables more stable connections. With it, users can share audio with other LE Audio-enabled devices. (4)
LE Audio gives you access to Auracast, a broadcast audio technology that streams live audio to equipped devices in public spaces like concert venues, event spaces, and transit stations. We think users will find this feature incredibly valuable as it makes information and audio more accessible in airports, railway stations, conferences, theaters, and places of worship, reducing stress and enhancing the listening experience. Auracast can also stream in multiple languages simultaneously and enables shared audio experiences in private settings, ensuring compatibility across different hearing aid brands. (5)
User experience and comfort
Comfort is crucial for hearing aids, and the Jabra Enhance Select 500 does not disappoint. The small and lightweight model fits snugly in the ear, and ensures long-term wearability without discomfort.
The battery life is also noteworthy. A single three-hour charge provides a full day—24 hours—of use. A one-hour charge provides 15 hours of use, and a quick 10-minute charge gives 2.5 hours of use.
Select 500 hearing aids come in five color options: silver, champagne, gold, bronze, and dark gray.
Cost, warranty, and trial period
Jabra Enhance devices come with two package options: premium and basic.
The premium package includes:
- Custom-programmed devices tailored to your hearing test
- Professional assistance with setup and fitting
- Three years of professional care and remote adjustments
- A three-year warranty and loss and damage protection
The basic package includes:
- Pre-programmed devices, which you set up and manage yourself
- One-year warranty and loss and damage protection
Select 500 hearing aids cost $1,995 with the premium package and $1,795 with the basic package. Jabra Enhance devices come with a 100-day trial period, with free return shipping and no restocking fees, so you have ample time to determine if they’ll meet your needs.
Check out our full Jabra hearing aids review for more information on this popular brand.
What customers are saying
Because these hearing aids are so new there are no online customer reviews yet. Jabra Enhance has a 71 out of 100 satisfaction score on Consumer Reports. The highest scores were for overall value and battery life. Jabra Enhance has a 3.6 out of 5-star score and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) from 40 customer reviews.
“The Jabra Enhance Select is my fourth pair of high-end hearing aids over the last fifteen years. These are definitely the best, and I can finally understand words instead of hearing volume with little understanding. I am able to keep them at a much lower volume and understand the words. Also, the customer service and support has been excellent. Ordering was very easy, and the phone app is very good, easy to use, and allows me to make many changes”.
BBB reviewer Kyle E. gave only one star due to disappointment with customer service. He said, “I have tried calling [customer service] with zero luck. Every time I do, I get the ‘thank you for calling’ and then straight to please leave a message. A message is left with zero response. I have tried emails. Again, no response.”
Specs
| Type / style | OTC / RIC |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $1,795 or $1,995, depending on package |
| Warranty | One or three years, depending on the package |
Best Bluetooth hearing aids for severe hearing loss: Phonak Audéo Lumity
Key product features
What you should know
The Phonak Audéo Lumity is an exceptional choice for individuals with severe hearing loss. Here are its key features:
- The Phonak Audéo Lumity offers powerful amplification and superior noise reduction, making it ideal for severe hearing loss.
- At $5,445 per pair, the pricing is high but on par with other powerful, prescription-based hearing aids.
- The ergonomic and lightweight RIC design ensures comfort for prolonged use.
- Health data tracking is an added bonus and includes wear time, step counter, and heart rate monitor.
- Provides a full day (24 hours) of use on a single charge, perfect for active users.
Why we like Phonak Audéo Lumity as the best for severe hearing loss
The Phonak Audéo Lumity stands out as the best Bluetooth hearing aid for severe hearing loss, combining powerful amplification with advanced features to deliver exceptional performance. While OTC hearing aids are meant for self-perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, more powerful prescription-based models are better suited to severe hearing loss. (6) This model can meet the needs of individuals with significant hearing challenges, ensuring clear and natural sound quality even in the most demanding environments.
Performance and sound quality
The Phonak Audéo Lumity provides superior sound clarity and speech understanding, particularly for those with severe hearing loss. It’s programmed by your audiologist to meet your specific hearing needs as determined by an audiogram.
We know that deciphering speech in loud environments leads to listening fatigue. (7) These hearing aids combat that by making conversations easier to follow, even in noisy environments. They use a technology called StereoZoom to automatically increase the strength of speech focus as the background noise level increases. You can also adjust the focus strength through the myPhonak app. Our testing confirmed strong sound clarity.
Bluetooth connectivity and features
In addition to Bluetooth connecting to the myPhonak app, it allows direct audio streaming from smartphones, TVs, and other devices. Our tester found the app well-designed and feature-rich without feeling overwhelming. The app’s standout is health data tracking, which tracks wear time and steps, a handy feature for health-conscious users. After all, studies show that tracking steps lead to better health outcomes. (8) The app also lets your audiologist make remote adjustments.
These hearing aids can also provide tinnitus treatment with sound therapy, which offers significant relief from the negative impacts of tinnitus by “masking” the tinnitus sounds with more pleasant sounds. (9) Sound therapy is customized to the individual, programmed by your hearing professional, and controlled through the myPhonak app.
If you’re looking for help with tinnitus, check out our best hearing aids for tinnitus.
User experience and comfort
Comfort and ease of use are crucial for hearing aids, and the Phonak Audéo Lumity delivers on both fronts. They fit securely and comfortably behind the ear, even during extended use. Our tester found them comfortable and ergonomic.
This is our review’s only hearing aid offering a disposable battery option. The rechargeable battery’s life is on par with that of other Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids, with 24 hours of life from a three-hour charge. They come with an easy-to-use charging case. We noticed that the strong internal magnets pull the devices right into position.
The Audéo Lumity is rated for water resistance, so you can wear them in the shower but not for extended underwater activities like swimming.
Their multi-function button can turn the aids on and off, put them into flight mode, take phone calls, and control sound, though our tester found it a bit small. This may make it difficult for users with larger fingers or dexterity limitations to use. But we appreciated that the high positioning of the button didn’t make manual adjustments to disrupt the fit as we noticed with some other models with lower-positioned buttons. Of course, you can always make adjustments through the app instead of using the button.
The Audéo Lumity comes in eight color options, the most in this review.
Cost, warranty, and trial period
The Phonak Audéo Lumity is a premium prescription hearing aid, and the high cost reflects its cutting-edge technology and the accompanying comprehensive professional support. Prices, warranty, and trial periods vary by supplier. The warranty will depend on the care package level purchased.
To learn more about what this brand has to offer, check out our complete Phonak hearing aids review.
What customers are saying
Phonak has only 1.8 stars on Trustpilot with 83 reviews. But it should be noted this score is not specific to the Audéo Lumity but rather to the company itself.
“I downloaded the Phonak app and tried for three days to pair my hearing aids with my Android cell phone. I called customer service, and an actual human answered my call and stayed with me for half an hour while we worked through the trouble with the app. We ultimately uninstalled and reinstalled the app. I was very impressed with his patience and knowledge. Phonak loses a star, not for their technician, but for the kinks in the app.”
June Farmer is a Trustpilot reviewer who wrote, “I have had the Phonak hearing aids for a few months now, and they are fantastic, no feedback noises, they are small and discreet, easy to charge, and usually when I fly when the plane tips, I feel sick and dizzy but not anymore. The app is so easy to use. When I go out with friends, I can change the settings to hear the conversations…I can listen to music through my hearing aids as they connect through Bluetooth and answer my phone by tapping the button on the hearing aid, so no rummaging in my bag to locate the phone. They also count my steps. These hearing aids are fantastic.”
Some customers report technical difficulties, especially with pairing to the app.
Glynis Jones gave one star on Trustpilot and said, “I’ve had the myPhonak app for a week now. I’ve had to uninstall and reinstall it over six times that week! My hearing aids keep ‘unpairing’, and the app can’t find them again, even if I close the program, unpair the aids, repair them, and do everything else recommended. The only way to reconnect them is to install the app again. Shame, since it would have been useful to have all the controls easily at hand on my phone.”
Specs
| Type / style | Prescription/RIC |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to profound |
| Battery type | Disposable or rechargeable |
| Price | $5,445 |
| Warranty | Depends on supplier |
Most user-friendly Bluetooth hearing aid: Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose
Key product features
What you should know
The Lexie B2 Plus is a top choice for those seeking a user-friendly Bluetooth hearing aid. Here are the main points to consider:
- The Lexie B2 Plus offers clear sound and self-customizable settings, making it highly user-friendly.
- Priced at $999, it offers the most desirable features in the mid-price range for OTC devices.
- Ideal for users seeking Bluetooth connectivity with iPhones (not Android compatible).
- Ergonomic design with multiple dome options ensures a comfortable fit.
- Provides up to 18 hours of use on a single charge.
Why we like Lexie B2 Plus as the most user-friendly
The Lexie B2 Plus, powered by Bose, is one of the most user-friendly Bluetooth hearing aids on the market. It stands out for its rechargeable battery, self-customizable settings, and Bluetooth calls streaming capabilities from an iPhone.
Related: The Best Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Performance and sound quality
The Lexie B2 Plus offers clear and natural sound quality, supported by advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation features. It provides an exceptional listening experience in various environments, with four presets: noisy indoors, outdoors, music, and every day. The optional in-app hearing test may create up to 10 recommended settings.
Bluetooth connectivity and features
The Lexie B2 Plus offers seamless Bluetooth connectivity with iPhones. Users can easily stream phone calls directly to their hearing aids, but it’s important to note that the streaming feature is not optimized for music or video, and doesn’t support hands-free calling. Also, there’s currently no compatibility with Android devices.
Bluetooth does connect to the Lexie app, which offers volume control and muting, treble and bass adjustments, microphone directionality adjustments, balance adjustments, switching between customizable environmental settings, software updates, and video chats with Lexie support. Unlike the other devices in this review, these cannot be worn in the shower.
User experience and comfort
This is a true self-fitting hearing aid, meaning you’re in charge of the actual fit and the functionality settings, a desirable feature for do-it-yourselfers. (10) No hearing test or visit to an audiologist is required.
Rachael Cook, AuD, an audiologist at Applied Hearing Solutions and content creator for Dr. Cliff, AuD YouTube channel, told us, “I think OTC hearing aids are a great option for those with budget constraints or in rural areas without access to audiological care, but I always recommend a medical examination first. You may have something as simple as extreme wax buildup causing your hearing loss.”
If you decide to go the OTC route, Lexie makes the self-fitting aspect simple to set up and manage. Our tester confirmed the setup was easy using the steps outlined in the Lexie app.
They come with six sets of domes—three sizes of closed and three sizes of open—to ensure the best possible fit and sound experience. The open domes have small holes in them, allowing for a more natural sound, while the closed domes boost the hearing aid’s sound level and bass. Users can choose the dome that best suits their preferences.
Cost, warranty, and trial period
The Lexie B2 Plus is priced at $999, making it a mid-range option among OTC hearing aids.
You can purchase them directly through Lexie, which provides a one-year warranty, covering any manufacturing defects and essential repairs, and a 45-day trial period so users can test them and ensure they meet their needs. Also considered one of the best Costco hearing aids, they still include the manufacturer’s warranty, a one-year care kit, and a one-year protection plan when purchased online or at your local Costco hearing center.
Related: The Best Affordable Hearing Aids
To learn more about this brand, visit our complete Lexie hearing aids review.
What customers are saying
Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids have 4.3 stars on Amazon and 71 ratings. Most customers are impressed with the quality of sound, especially for speech.
“After four years of searching, three audiologists, two otolaryngologists, and four hearing aids, I finally found this Lexie Bose product…[The] devices are comfortable, and my open dome choice allows me to hear my own voice without the conductive distortions you get from in canal aids. My own speaking voice sounds normal…[I’m] hearing birds for the first time in years.”
Amazon reviewer Ben feels they’re as effective as prescription options. He wrote, “I just purchased these after my puppy chewed up one of my $6,000 dollar hearing aids. I will just say, wow! I was totally impressed right out of the box with no adjustments. The fit and sound are superior to my old ones. This is just day one, but I am very pleased.”
Lexie Hearing has 2.9 stars on Trustpilot with only 19 customer reviews. Claudia gave a one star rating and was disappointed in the customer service. She said, “My husband’s Lexie B2 stopped working after nine months. He spent days on the phone trying to get help…the company is inflexible about helping customers with problems with their products.”
Specs
| Type / style | OTC/RIC |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $999 |
| Warranty | One year |
Best lifestyle Bluetooth hearing aids: Starkey Genesis AI
Key product features
What you should know
The Starkey Genesis AI is an exceptional lifestyle Bluetooth hearing aid. Here are the key takeaways:
- The Genesis AI boasts advanced lifestyle features, including fall detection, language translation, and fitness monitoring, alongside superior sound quality.
- Ideal for active individuals seeking multifunctional hearing aids with health and wellness tracking.
- The ergonomic and waterproof design ensures comfort and durability.
- Provides up to 51 hours of use on a single charge, the longest in any hearing aid in this piece.
Why we like Starkey Genesis AI as the best lifestyle
The Starkey Genesis AI is our pick for best lifestyle Bluetooth hearing aid, integrating cutting-edge technology with comprehensive health and wellness features. This device goes beyond traditional hearing aids, offering functionalities such as fall detection, fitness monitoring, language translation, long battery life, and water resistance, making it an ideal choice for active individuals.
Performance and sound quality
The Starkey Genesis AI delivers exceptional sound quality with advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation. This hearing aid provides clear and natural audio, enhancing speech understanding in various environments, from quiet settings to bustling public spaces. It uses AI-driven algorithms to adapt to different listening situations, ensuring optimal performance at all times. Its Deep Neural Network (DNN) technology is highly effective at improving speech intelligibility. In fact, one study found it restored speech intelligibility to normal hearing levels. (11)
Bluetooth connectivity and features
The Starkey Genesis AI provides seamless LE Bluetooth connectivity, so users can stream audio directly from smartphones, tablets, and other devices. It also has hands-free calling, music streaming, and video playback. Unfortunately, it’s not compatible with Auracast.
The My Starkey app further enhances usability thanks to its various customization options, including volume control, environmental presets, and health tracking. This hearing aid’s unique lifestyle features, such as fall detection, fitness monitoring, language translation (for 77 languages), and a find-my-hearing-aids feature, set it apart from competitors. Our tester noted that the app is complex and could prove difficult for less tech-savvy users.
User experience and comfort
Our tester noted that the Genesis AIs were comfortable, lightweight, and felt secure on the ear. They’re also waterproof, so users can wear them in various conditions without worrying about damage. The long battery life—lasting up to 30 hours on a single charge—is ideal for users with active lifestyles. The portable charging case also means the hearing aid is always ready for use.
Cost, warranty, and trial period
The Starkey Genesis AI is priced at the lower end of the prescription hearing aid market, starting at $2,950 at Yes Hearing. As with any professionally provided hearing aid, the price, warranty, and trial period will vary by supplier.
For more information about the Starkey Genesis AI, check out our full Starkey hearing aids review.
What customers are saying
Starkey has 3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with 362 customer reviews. Nearly half of the customers rated it five stars.
“I was fitted with Starkey hearing aids last week, and they sound amazing. The service was prompt, and they were kind with my questions.”
Dorothy rated five stars on Trustpilot and had this to say about her husband’s Starkey Genesis hearing aids: “My husband has given his rave review of his Starkey Genesis hearing aids. I want to also thank Starkey for making our conversations better, not having the TV blaring, and seeing him happy to go out amongst our friends and be sociable again.”
Nearly 20% of customers gave Starkey only one star. It’s important to note that a large part of customer satisfaction will be determined by the supplier used. Customers don’t have much direct interaction with Starkey itself. Also, reviews are generally not specific to the Genesis AI model.
Danny rated one star on Trustpilot and said, “The hearing aids have never worked properly, always echoing back into the ear. We took them back many times to be repaired when we received them back, but the same issue arose. It’s been nearly five years, and I never used the aids for more than a day. They sat in the box.”
Specs
| Type / style | Prescription / RIC |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to profound |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | Starting at around $2,950 |
| Warranty | Depends on supplier |
How do Bluetooth hearing aids work?
Bluetooth hearing aids use wireless technology to connect to various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and televisions. This connectivity means you can stream audio directly from these devices, providing a clear and convenient listening experience. When paired with a smartphone, a Bluetooth hearing aid can receive phone calls, music, and other audio signals directly into the ear, eliminating the need for additional accessories. This direct streaming significantly improves the quality of sound and speech understanding, especially in noisy environments.
Bluetooth hearing aids also offer programmable settings that users can customize via smartphone companion apps. These apps allow for adjustments in volume, sound quality, and other preferences, providing a personalized hearing experience. The integration of Bluetooth technology not only enhances the functionality of hearing aids but also makes them more user-friendly and versatile for everyday use.
Pros and cons of Bluetooth hearing aids
Bluetooth hearing aids provide various opportunities and advantages to enhance daily life with in-app device management, hands-free phone calls, and media streaming. However, they have their own set of drawbacks, too.
Pros
- You can often stream media and phone calls through your hearing aids for clearer, more personalized sound quality.
- Many offer the ability to adjust the volume, program, and other features easily through an app on your phone.
- They are available in many different styles, so you can find which one best suits your hearing needs and preferences.
Cons
- Using Bluetooth often drains the hearing aid’s battery life much quicker.
- You may miss interactions with others around you who can’t hear what you’re listening to and don’t realize you’re on the phone or streaming media through your hearing aids.
- Connectivity issues are a common complaint among users, especially when using older devices or out-of-date operating systems.
How much do Bluetooth hearing aids cost?
While Bluetooth hearing aids typically cost more, we’ve seen these devices becoming more affordable as they gain popularity and align with efforts to reduce the overall costs of hearing devices. (12, 13) You can expect to pay between $1,000 for more basic OTC models and over $6,000 for complex professional models.
The price can vary significantly based on the sophistication of the hearing aid’s technology, the quality of sound processing, and additional features like noise reduction and customization options.
How to save money on Bluetooth hearing aids
The cost of hearing aids can feel daunting, but there are several different ways to reduce the burden on your pocketbook.
- Financing: Most manufacturers and retailers offer financing options that make them more affordable through smaller payments over time.
- Discount programs: You may also be eligible for discounted or free hearing aids through specific programs, such as Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, and some nonprofit organizations.
- Insurance: While insurance doesn’t typically cover hearing aids, a few private plans may cover some or all of the costs. You should check with your benefits provider to understand your coverage options.
- HSA/FSA: If your insurance doesn’t cover hearing aids, you can still use your benefits to help reduce out-of-pocket costs by paying for your devices tax-free using your HSA or FSA card.
When evaluating the price of Bluetooth hearing aids, it’s essential to consider both the initial cost and potential long-term benefits.
FAQs
Do Bluetooth hearing aids work?
Yes, Bluetooth hearing aids work effectively by providing clear, direct audio streaming from connected devices, improving speech understanding and overall sound quality. These hearing aids use Bluetooth technology to connect wirelessly to smartphones, tablets, and other audio sources, delivering sound directly to the ear. This direct connection minimizes background noise and enhances the clarity of conversations and media. Users often report a significant improvement in their ability to hear and understand speech in various environments, especially noisy ones. The seamless integration with modern technology also adds convenience and flexibility to the user experience.
Related: How Do Hearing Aids Work?
Are Bluetooth hearing aids covered by insurance?
Hearing aids are usually not covered by health insurance or Medicare. However, a few private insurance plans, including Medicare Advantage (Part C), may cover part or all of the cost of these devices. It’s crucial to check with your specific insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage available. Some plans may cover hearing aids under durable medical equipment benefits, while others might offer partial reimbursement or require a copay. Certain government programs, veterans’ benefits, or employer-sponsored health plans may provide coverage. Investigating all available options can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for these advanced hearing devices.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids better than regular hearing aids?
Bluetooth hearing aids offer enhanced connectivity, direct audio streaming, and customizable settings, providing more convenience and functionality than regular hearing aids. Streaming audio directly from smartphones, televisions, and other devices makes Bluetooth hearing aids particularly beneficial for those who rely on these technologies daily. This feature improves the overall listening experience by delivering clearer and more focused sound.
Additionally, many Bluetooth hearing aids come with companion apps that allow for personalized adjustments and remote control, further enhancing user satisfaction. While traditional hearing aids can still provide excellent sound amplification, Bluetooth models offer higher integration and user control.
Can you get NHS hearing aids with Bluetooth?
The National Health Service (NHS) offers several modern hearing aid models, including some with Bluetooth capabilities (14). If you’re a resident of the UK, you can get a referral from your general practitioner to see an NHS hearing aid provider who can offer free hearing aids on a long-term loan. Additional benefits you can utilize at no cost include battery replacements, repairs, aftercare, and follow-up appointments.
Keep in mind that this program offers a much smaller range of devices, so if you prefer a specific hearing aid style or certain features, you may need to pay for your treatment instead. Additionally, you may wait longer to get your hearing aids through the NHS versus private pay options. (14)
Are Bluetooth hearing aids more expensive?
Our testing revealed that the best hearing aids cost between $189 and $7,500, and those with Bluetooth capabilities typically land at the higher end of that range. Considering the four that made our list of best Bluetooth hearing aids, you can expect to pay $1,000 to over $5,000. The price range is so wide for these devices because many additional factors also impact the price, such as brand, model, prescription or OTC, and sound technology.
Can you talk on the phone with Bluetooth hearing aids?
Many Bluetooth hearing aids can connect with smartphones for hands-free calling. Streaming calls directly to your hearing aids allows you to hear the call through both ears with clearer and more personalized sound levels. However, some only work with iOS devices, so you’ll want to check device compatibility before choosing.
Our experts
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine. An active clinical researcher, Dr. Raj is currently an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, and the Associate Program Director of Internal Medicine Residency at Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars Sinai.
Stephanie Hope, CSSC, CSMC, CLC
Stephanie Hope has over seven years of experience in product and service journalism, with a focus on sleep and well-being. Not only is she a Certified Sleep Science Coach, but she is also a Certified Stress Management Coach, Longevity Coach, and is working on becoming a Wellness Coach through the Spencer Institute.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lauren Sherman, MS
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Lauren Sherman brings a blend of academic rigor and practical application to her role as a health content expert. With a Master’s degree in Human Genetics from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Lauren combines deep scientific knowledge with real-world experience gained at National Jewish Health and Children’s Hospital Colorado. She specializes in creating authoritative and engaging content tailored to aging adults, drawing on her extensive research into products and strategies that enhance the quality of life for this demographic. Her work is informed by personal experience, having navigated the aging process with her own parents, and is underpinned by a commitment to providing actionable insights for her readers. Lauren’s contributions can be found on renowned platforms such as NCOA.org, HelpGuide.org, and MarketWatch.com, where she addresses complex health topics with clarity and compassion.